Newton Aycliffe stalwart Ron Mitchie is now playing in his sixth decade, after starting out with the club following his move from Reading way back in 1952.

His parents came up to the North-East and Ron immediately started playing with Newton Aycliffe where he has spent almost 50 years, apart from spells with Dean and Chapter in the Durham County League and Heighington in the Darlington and District League.

"I remember moving to Newton Aycliffe in the winter of 1952 and immediately looked for a club. I have turned out for Aycliffe in the South Durham League, Mid Durham League, the Darlington and District League and for the last three seasons, the club has been operating in the Roseberry Group North East Durham League.

"Playing in so many different leagues has enabled me to meet lots of people and I have really enjoyed playing for more than 50 years.

"I started in Reading as a boy and there have been lots of changes in the last half century, not least of all the more recent changes to the rules," said Ron, 64.

He began his career as a leg spinner before becoming a wicket-keeper and is now playing in the Newton Aycliffe second team but his three sons have all helped Aycliffe to promotion. Kevin, Alan and Stuart all turn our regularly for the senior side and recently, they celebrated going into the First Division which is not bad considering that last year, the club played in the Third Division.

"We are very much a cricket-orientated family and we all love the game.

"Years ago, my wife used to help with the teas so we were all heavily involved and we've enjoyed every minute of it," enthused Ron.